Nature – Nurture L.O. Describe and evaluate the role of both nature and nurture in explaining human behaviour, drawing on material (including content and methods) studied in psychology.

Zac and Yan think there may be issues of nature and nurture in the way that children learn. Describe what is meant by the term ‘nurture’. (3 marks) Max 1 mark for an example that is clear and elucidates the answer. Max 1 for a point that explains nurture by comparing it with nature Nurture means that the primary influences on the individual are from external sources/eq; It means we are who we are as a result of our experiences/eq; Such influences are likely to include the way we are brought up by our parents/eq; Nurture can include literature, children’s stories, nursery rhymes etc/eq; Learning itself is a nurture influence (Plus an appropriate example)/eq;

During her work experience at a local newspaper the editor asks Sophia to write an article using her psychological knowledge. The headline of the article reads: Does someone’s upbringing make them who they are? Write a brief article giving both sides of the argument. In your answer use examples from at least two areas of psychology to illustrate your argument. (5 marks)

Think of the “nature” and “nurture” as two extremes of a continuum. Place each approach on the figure below where you think is appropriate and justify your decision. NatureNurture

Where do each of the AS approaches sit on the nature v nurture debate? Identify elements from each approach to show where they sit in the debate.

Nature: refers to inherited characteristics and abilities determined by our genes. Supporters of this view are known as ‘hereditarians’. The biological approach has a nature focus on gender Nurture: refers to the influences of experience; we learn through our interactions with both the physical and social environment. Supporters of this view are known as ‘empiricists’. The learning approach has a nurture focus on gender What do they mean?

Bear in mind that you need to be able to explain where you see the nature v nurture debate in psychology in a topic area – as an example of where you might see it. You need to be able to explain the nature side of the debate and the nurture side of the debate. Suitable topic areas to know in detail are Crime, Gender and Mental Health. Remember that you must use key terms and refer to research in each argument. You then use one of the following points to explain why it might be a bit of both and link it to the points you have already made.

Nature: The fact that we are born as either male or female due to our genes and hormones from conception Nurture: The way that our parents treat us and the gender behaviours which are reinforced in us as children Influences

Our genes and our environment constantly interact to determine our personality. They work together to determine the end point. For example criminal personality may be determined by a genetically aggressive person who has been exposed to violent, criminal, role models. They may only become criminal because of both of these factors interacting, and without both it would not happen.